Common name: Fourline wrasse
General information
The Fourline Wrasse, scientifically known as Pseudocheilinus tetrataenia, is a small and colorful member of the Labridae family. This species is known for its striking appearance, featuring four horizontal stripes that run the length of its body, which can range from a vivid red to a deep burgundy, depending on the individual and environmental factors.
In the wild, these wrasses are solitary and somewhat secretive, often found darting among coral branches and rubble in search of small invertebrates to eat. Their behavior in the aquarium is similar, and they can be a joy to observe as they actively explore their surroundings.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 12 cm (5″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs hiding places and live rock
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys mysis, brine shrimp, and meaty foods
- Social
- Solo Can be territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at fins of peaceful fish
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusWrassePseudocheilinus
- SpeciesFourline wrassePseudocheilinus tetrataenia Schultz, 1960
Care
Fourline Wrasses are considered moderately easy to care for, making them suitable for intermediate-level hobbyists. They require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and hunting. A tight-fitting lid is essential, as wrasses are known jumpers and can easily leap out of an uncovered tank.
These wrasses are carnivorous and thrive on a varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Regular feeding will help maintain their vibrant colors and overall health.
Reproduction
In the aquarium, breeding Fourline Wrasses is quite challenging due to their solitary nature and specific mating rituals. In the wild, they are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and can change to male if the dominant male is absent.
Habitat
Fourline Wrasses are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They prefer reef environments with plenty of live rock and coral where they can hunt and hide. They are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters.